How to reduce water usage

How to reduce water usage

Whether indoor or outdoor, there are lots of ways to be smart about water usage. And there are some simple actions that can make a big difference to your water bill.

Look for better water ratings

Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) is Australia's water efficiency labelling scheme. It allows you to compare the water efficiency of different products. The higher the WELS rating, the more water you’ll save and therefore the more money you can keep in your pocket.

How to use less water around the house

The kitchen, bathroom and laundry are rooms where a lot of water is used. To keep your water bills to a minimum, try some of the following tips.

Appliances

As the main water-intensive appliance in the kitchen is the dishwasher, look for one that is water and energy efficient, as this will save you money in the long run.

Look for the WELS rating as this will tell you the dishwasher’s water efficiency rating. Remember, the higher the WELS rating the more water efficient the dishwasher will be.

Dishwashers also have an Energy Rating, as they use a lot of hot water and therefore a lot of energy. Look for models that have the most stars as you can save up to 30 per cent on running costs with each extra star.

Fixings

If you need to replace fixings such as taps in the kitchen, bathroom or laundry, then it’s important to check the WELS rating, as this will tell you how many litres of water per minute the product uses.

Repairs

Make sure that taps in the bathroom, laundry and kitchen are working properly and aren’t leaking.

If your taps are leaking, then it might mean that you need to replace the washer. You could also retrofit older taps with aerators or flow control valves. This is also relevant for showerheads in the bathroom.

Use grey and recycled water

Another simple and cost effective way to reduce your water bills is to install a grey water diverter hose, which will drain used water from your bathroom or laundry to buckets or directly into your garden.

Grey water diverter hoses can easily be connected to your washing machine. However, it’s important to talk to your council before setting up a grey water system, as there are compliance regulations regarding grey water treatment and diversion systems in each state.

How to save water in the garden

A water-efficient garden is very easy to set up, requires little attention and will save you time and money. Luckily, there are heaps of simple ways to ensure your garden not only stays alive but thrives. Here are a few ways you can save water.

Watering solutions such as dripper systems and soaker hoses release water slowly, reducing the risk of run-off and water wastage. They’re also very easy to install.

Soil wetters are the perfect solution for those wanting to use less water in the garden. Soil wetters help soil absorb water, improve the efficiency of fertilisers and reduce water run-off.

Controlling the water you use in the garden is easy, too. Think about installing a manual or electronic tap timer so your plants get adequate hydration while not using too much water.

Station control systems are perfect for those wanting to set up a smart garden, as they adjust to seasons and stop watering when it’s raining.

Weather stations are also handy for those wanting local weather forecasting in their home, and rain gauges are great for those wanting to know whether to water the garden.

Looking for a water tank to cut down your water bills? Water tanks come in many different sizes and colours, so no matter what size your outdoor area there should be one for you. A rainwater tank level indicator is also good to use as you’re able to tell how much water is in your tank at a glance.

Be pool smart

Households can also save a lot of water and money by covering their pool or spa with blankets - if they are left uncovered this can lead to significant water evaporation.

Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page. You can also use a simple test kit from Bunnings to indicate the presence of lead-based paint.

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